Although PFAS have been used extensively since the 1950s, experts are only beginning to understand their potential impacts on human health. This understanding continues to evolve based on ongoing research. Studies involving PFOS and PFOA suggest that exposure to high levels of PFOS and PFOA may: 

Scientists are still learning about the health effects from exposures to mixtures of PFAS. For more information, visit the CDC's PFAS and Your Health website and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) PFAS webpage. 

The main ways people can be exposed to PFAS include: 

Public water supplies 

In Aug 2022, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued drinking water standards for PFOA and PFOS at a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) individually or combined.  This means that if the MCL’s are exceeded, a corrective action plan must be implemented to maintain protection of public health and safety in drinking water.  

Additionally, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)  has recommended health-based groundwater standards for 18 PFAS compounds as well as issued guidance for assessing risk of mixtures of PFAS compounds in drinking water using a hazard index tool. In situations where PFAS compounds exceed DHS recommendations but are below the MCL of 70 ppt, DNR will require public water systems to issue a Tier 2 public notice per Wis. Admin. Code §§ NR 809.950(3)(c)5. and NR 809.950(4).  

To view PFAS water testing results Visit the DNR website  and click “PFAS Sampling Info” under “Layer Controls.” Click on the circle next to the name of the municipality to find out the results. Contact your municipality if you want more information. 

Private wells 

If you’re in an area near PFAS contamination, it is recommended that you test your well for PFAS. Well owners can order a sample kit from the State lab of Hygiene. We recommend purchasing a kit that includes the blank sample bottle. The blank sample tells you if the sample was contaminated by improper collection methods or laboratory processing problems. The lab charges $420 (includes the blank sample) to test for the 18 PFAS compounds for which DHS has set health advisory levels. Private laboratories also offer PFAS testing for these 18 PFAS compounds.    

If you get your well tested, you can use this tool  from the Department of Health Services to compare your test results to State standards. If PFAS levels are high, you can take steps to limit your exposure. 

The ARPA Well Compensation and Well Abandonment Grant Programs are being administered by the DNR. Well replacement or water treatment needed from PFAS contamination are eligible expenses. Family income limits apply. See website for more information.   

Skin Contact with PFAS Contaminated Water 

Based on the available data, only a small amount of PFAS can get into your body from skin contacting PFAS-contaminated water. Also, most PFAS do not evaporate into the air from water readily. Therefore, for most PFAS, showering, bathing, or washing dishes in water containing PFAS should not increase exposure. (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry). 

Because PFAS are found at low levels in some foods and in the environment (air, water, soil, etc.) completely eliminating exposure is unlikely. However, certain actions can be taken to reduce your overall exposure to PFAS, including the following.